Yet another disappointing race from Sergio Perez! Things haven’t been great for the Mexican driver lately. His last podium came at the Japanese GP earlier this year. Since then, there’s been nothing but a dry spell. He is clearly at a very low ebb. Even Nico Hulkenberg scored more points in the last two races than Perez has over the previous six. Meanwhile, the rumor mills in F1 have been super active these days. Despite a contract extension, the fear of replacing is looming Sergio Perez.

In light of Perez’s replacement rumors, former F1 driver Alex Wurz and talk-show host Tom Clarkson discussed the Mexican’s current situation. And how he can come out of it if he wants to. The real underlying problem here is that Perez is failing to reciprocate Red Bull‘s faith. This could be due to the immense pressure he feels driving next to Max Verstappen. Perez had a promising start to the season, but soon that turned into a blunder. So what must Checo do?

Experts suggest that Sergio Perez would do better in a different team

On Spotify’s F1 Nation podcast, hosted by Tom Clarkson, former F1 driver Alex Wurz shared a piece of his mind on Sergio Perez’s British Grand Prix blunders. Sky Sports reporter Natalie Pinkham was also a part of the episode. She pointed out that Sergio Perez’s horrendous end to Saturday’s qualifying session was among the many mishaps the driver experienced during the weekend. “At one point his teammate lapped him,” Pinkham reminded.

Calling the situation difficult, Alex Wurz said: “I would almost think if Checo would simply go to a different team if he would get a chance, he would come back as a very strong driver who, on a good day, is able to win a Formula one race.” Urging the 34-year-old to resign from Red Bull so that he can prove his mettle as an F1 driver. Wurz further added: “The cloud of Verstappen hanging over him. There is no oxygen for him to breathe to refresh his brain. There is no life.” This implies that Max Verstappen‘s presence in the team is allegedly (and quite evidently) overshadowing Perez.

Alex Wurz further explained, “It is really really difficult, because the moment he (Verstappen) walks into the room he takes the oxygen off the room and consumes it all. That is so performance-driven.” Max Verstappen’s personality and demeanor make Red Bull revolve around him. And every time he is around all the ‘oxygen‘ (which could imply attention) is consumed by Max and nothing is left for Sergio Perez. “The team is behind Max and he’s (Perez) more and more on the back foot. But he’s fundamentally not a bad driver. He won races,” concluded the F1 expert.

If the inconsistency persists, then nothing could stop Sergio Perez’s replacement; and this could happen in the middle of the ongoing season. But who will replace him if needed? A few names have emerged recently. Bringing back Daniel Ricciardo on the Red Bull map, Sergio Perez must improve his performance before it’s too late.

Who could come in Sergio Perez’s Red Bull seat?

There have been rumors about Red Bull’s reserve driver Liam Lawson. Earlier this season there had been speculations that he could replace Daniel Ricciardo at VCARB. But now, with a sudden change in the picture, Lawson is one of the top options for Christian Horner. This continuous inconsistency on Checo’s part is bringing the ‘apocalypse’ closer.

And now, the doors to Red Bull are open for Daniel Ricciardo once again. The Aussie was at the brink of an end to his 2024 season because of his poor performance, but the last few races witnessed an improvement. So, is it safe to say Daniel Ricciardo is almost back? Meanwhile, a new name is popping up. Isack Hadjar, the 19-year-old driver racing for Campos Racing in F2. He trialed in FP1 in Silverstone, in Sergio Perez’s place. One could say – there have been signs. Perez himself is aware of his blunders. And fans must wait and watch to see what he does in the upcoming races.

Sergio Perez is carrying immense pressure on his shoulder right now. His recent performance slumps have raised concerns among the motorsport community. While experts suggest switching teams could change the scenario, it all depends on Checo how he can upgrade himself. With two weeks in his hands until the next race, Perez must sort his things and refresh his mind. Next stop – the Hungarian Grand Prix.